“How I Secured Us Scholarships Worth $206,510/Year (Over 100 Million Naira) Without Gre And Got Into Princeton University(Ivy-League, #1 In Us)!” 22-Year-Old #Nigerian Lady From #Akwaibom Writes How She Secured Fully Funded Scholarship
I am thrilled to announce that I have secured a fully-funded #scholarship to study for my Ph.D. program in #computerscience at the Ivy League college, Princeton University which is the #1 in National Universities in the #US according to US news. In addition, I got 3 Ph.D. offers( Univ. of Notre Dame, Univ. of Colorado & Kent State) and 2 master’s offers (Western Illinois and SLU).
As a 22-year-old #Nigerian lady from #Akwaibom, who attended #Uniben, this means a whole lot to me. Growing up, people used the name “OKON” for derogatory examples and it impacted my self-esteem. I am sharing this story to inspire every #youth and girl-child out there. They can achieve anything they set their minds to regardless of their humble financial and educational background, skin color, nationality, age, or gender.
My Journey to obtaining these scholarships was rigorous as I sent 140 cold emails, received 11 rejections and worked my 8-5 Job.
First, I met Wilfred of Zeed Worldwide, who educated me about US scholarships, Statement of purpose(SOP), and has become my #Lifecoach. Then, I joined the
First Class Leaders Network by Samuel where I received support from Chinonso, God’sgift, Esther, Isioma & Seun.
In Aug, Isaac Udotong who is a member of Parent Alumni at Harvard, MIT, and Princeton, advised me to shoot for the top schools and covered 2 app fees. He linked me to Prof Imafidon of Excellent in Education & Oxford University for SOP review.
In Nov, I won the MT Scholarship by Dr. Michael Taiwo which covered my #IELTS, Transcript, & 2 application fees. My MT mentors, Akinbiyi, Oluseun & Oyakhi provided guidance. Oyakhi thoroughly reviewed all my documents and encouraged my applications to the top schools. I reached out to Dr. Kelechukwu of DEKEMP, who reviewed my SOP & has supported me since then.
In Jan 2021, I received my first scholarship & the rest followed. I became an OFP Scholar and was hosted by the US Consulate General. Lagos EducationUSA covered my VISA and traveling expenses. Thanks to Mrs. Chinenye and Mrs. Adeola.
Today, I have resumed my program with a focus on improving maternal health through machine learning.
I am grateful to God Almighty, my family, recommenders(Mrs. Tyna and Peter Evah), friends Jimmy, Joseph, Dr. Odon, Mr. Emeka, Dr. Bayo, Peter, and all those that supported me. This is a dream come true for me as I believe this will prepare me to achieve similar feats as Princeton Alumni; Michelle(wife to Obama), Jeff Bezos, and Brooke Shields, my role models Tony Elumelu, Ngozi Iweala, Chimamanda & Folorunso Alakija. I must commend the effort of Princeton #University in Diversity and Inclusion.
My #story is a clear example of what is possible when we align ourselves in the position to leverage the experiences of #mentors.
To everyone struggling out there, don’t give up.
Promise Ekpo Osaine is an enthusiastic, first-class, self-motivated IT analyst highly regarded for research, quantitative, statistical, analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills, with success using technology to support business objectives in various industries. Seen as a leader with the ability to analyze complex issues and develop solutions to complete business projects. Manages projects while delivering on time, under budget, and above expectations. Known as an excellent communicator and presenter, who works well with individuals at all levels of an organization. Exceptional academic qualifications, including a B.Sc with a first class honours(4.75/5.0) in Computer Engineering from the University of Benin.